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So what is Mad Friday?

The clue is in the name. The combination of festive fun, bucket loads of booze and a LOT of people, often means things can get a bit out of control. It is one of the busiest nights for the emergency services, both police and paramedics dealing with fights, disagreements, falls, scrapes and over indulgence.

BUT that's a minority. For the majority it is a memorable - or maybe not the next morning - night out with friends and colleagues.

How busy does it get?

If you've been out recently in Cleethorpes you'll know it's already starting to get busy with Christmas parties and work nights out. But that will be nothing compared to Mad Friday. Expect the bars to start getting busy from lunchtime onwards - and the depth of people waiting at the bar to increase.

And spare a thought for those staff. It's just another shift for them!

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Will pubs be staying open later on Mad Friday?

Most pubs and bars will have standard opening times. Clubs will also be very busy with those who have lasted the night looking for more fun.

Check with a favourite pub or bar you are planning to visit to see if there is anything special on for the night.

Police with crowds of revellers in Cleethorpes (Image: Duncan Young)

What are the police saying about Mad Friday

Humberside Police are putting public safety as their priority, drafting in extra officers to deal with the influx of extra revellers - and potential trouble.

It even has a name for its strategy to deal with the pre-Christmas nights out, Operation Yuletide, "to tackle spikes in demand over the festive period".

Chief Inspector Paul Butler said: “As part of Op Yuletide, we’re reminding people to stop and think about their safety, and the safety of those around them. Whether that’s by booking a taxi in advance, walking away from trouble or by knowing your limits.”

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He said Humberside Police had been working with pubs, clubs and partner organisations since 1 December ahead of Mad Friday.

Humberside Police chief inspector Paul Butler (Image: Kate Woolhouse)

Chief Insp Butler added: “We don’t want to dampen the festive spirit, we want everyone to enjoy the celebrations and have fun, however it’s important that people stay in control and consider the consequences of their actions.

“Just one thoughtless act after drinking too much alcohol or taking illegal or legal highs can have disastrous results. From causing a scene in a bar, falling over and breaking your leg, to driving home and being arrested for drink-driving, we urge everyone to stop and think. We don’t want your Christmas or the rest of your life to be ruined by one night out,” he said.

A Mad Friday in Newcastle

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What advice are police giving?

The force said it hoped people would have a good time BUT issued the following advice to revellers.

Pace yourself. Don’t be remembered at the office Christmas party for the wrong reasons.

Make it a night to remember, for all the right reasons. Socialise safely by looking after yourself and your friends.

Don’t be a fool, don’t drink and drive. Even if you can’t get a taxi, keep yourself and others safe this Christmas

Think about the morning after - what time did you stop drinking? Just because it’s the next day, alcohol can still be in your system and if you’ve had a late night, tiredness itself can impede your ability to drive. Think! If in doubt, don’t drive.